Microsoft: Windows 7 Downgradeable to XP (news)

Microsoft's beloved operating system Windows XP might just get another extension. With Windows 7, the software giant Microsoft and PC makers will offer Windows 7 downgrade options. Under the downgrade option, PC buyers would be able to downgrade Windows 7 to Vista or even Windows XP. Of course, there would be certain conditions applicable.

Microsoft's Windows 7 looks good enough to repair Windows Vista's woes. While the public beta is available and being used, Microsoft is rumored to be releasing Windows 7's release candidate this summer. AppleInsider reported that HP got the green signal for extension of rights to sell Windows XP loaded systems till April 30, 2010. Also, HP would be offering volume-license users the option to downgrade to Windows XP.

Mary Jo Foley, who writes on All About Microsoft Blog, questioned Microsoft on the Windows XP downgrade rights. Foley stated that Microsoft will offer downgrade rights to users for downgrading Windows 7 to earlier Windows versions. So, basically, users can downgrade Windows 7 to Windows XP, Windows 2000, or even Windows 98.

Getting back to the HP-related downgrade arrangement, Microsoft's spokesperson warded off the possibility of HP-exclusive downgrade rights. Microsoft said that the downgrade policies will be applicable to all main OEM partners and not as a special arrangement. Microsoft's spokesperson stated, No dates have been announced for the end of Windows 7 downgrade right facilitation to Windows XP.

To be noted, Microsoft and its OEM partners offer downgrade rights on only two Windows Vista versions Business and Ultimate. Either of these versions could be downgraded to XP Professional. Not to be forgotten that the OEMs charge customers a price for the downgrade. Customers buying new machines with Windows XP downgrade from Windows Vista this summer would also be eligible for free Windows 7 upgrade.

It is interesting that people are actually concerned about downgrade options even before the release date of Windows 7 is announced. On the other hand, Apple offers upgrades to their Mac OS X operating systems, and a preview of the Snow Leopard is expected at the Worldwide Developers Conference 2009 starting June 8.

It would be unfair to compare these options since a majority of corporate customers are concerned about supporting their infrastructure, services, and products with multiple operating systems from the same company. Yet another wait and watch game for customers to check out what's in store with regard to Windows 7.